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Maximizing Your Comfort In-Flight
Queasy travelers should look into various motion sickness inhibitors such as pills or patches to be taken or put on prior to take-off--to settle those jittery tummies.
Keep in mind that it's not a good idea to board a plane with a growling stomach--food service could be delayed by turbulence or you might not like what's being served. If you're hungry even before boarding, play it safe and bring your own brown-bag meal.
If you are assigned a seat in coach, you might volunteer to sit in one of the emergency-exit rows. These rows have more leg room than a regular row and often have fewer seats. This row is also a safe haven for those who prefer a kid-free flight experience, as children are not allowed to occupy exit rows. (Another good way to avoid small children is to avoid bulkhead rows, which are often occupied by families.) Be aware, however, that seats in emergency-exit rows sometimes do not recline.
If you're choosing among several flights, inquire as to how full each flight is and then select the least crowded. Once you arrive at your gate, ask the agent to place you next to an empty seat if one is available. If the flight is not full, the agent can often accommodate this request.
To thwart ear pain, make sure you're awake before the plane begins its descent. This will allow you to gradually equalize the changing pressure in your ears. Yawning, wiggling your jaw, swallowing, and chewing gum can help immensely.
Dehydration-which can cause sore throats, muscle aches, and dry eyes--is a concern when flying. Be sure to have a plentiful supply of bottled water and moisturizer for dry skin. It also helps to abstain from alcohol and caffeinated drinks, which promote dehydration.
Low cabin pressure can cause your feet and lower legs to swell. If you slip your shoes off during the flight, you'll find it easier to put them back on after the cabin doors are opened upon landing, when pressure equalizes once again. To minimize swelling, periodically rotate your feet at the ankles, elevate your feet if possible, and walk about the cabin. This will also help keep your muscles and joints from getting stiff.
Smokers probably already know that smoking is banned on most international and all domestic flights. Non-smoking seats are usually available on international flights. If you're particularly sensitive to smoke, request a seat far away from the smoking section.
Sleeping on an airplane can be difficult, but there are ways to relax. If the flight's not booked solid, try to get a seat next to an empty space. Bring an eye cover, small pillow, and ear plugs to help shut out the rest of the world. An inflatable neck pillow can be a great device--you can inflate it easily to your desired firmness, yet it folds away quickly at the end of the flight. Be sure to buckle your belt loosely over your blanket, so that the flight attendant will not wake you to see if you're strapped in should a bout of turbulence strike.
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